Trinity College Adopts the University of Toronto’s Smoke-Free Policy

On January 24, 2019, Trinity College Board of Trustees approved the adoption of the University of Toronto Smoke-Free Policy (pdf) to apply to Trinity College.

The University of Toronto (U of T) went smoke-free as of January 1, 2019. As a federated college of U of T, the University’s smoke-free policy was considered by Trinity College’s governance process. After the policy was reviewed by the Community Affairs Committee, it recommended to Senate, which then brought the motion forward to the Board of Trustees, for the approval of the adoption of the University’s Smoke-Free Policy to apply to Trinity College. A sub-committee of Senate, the Community Affairs Committee includes faculty, staff and student representatives; Senate and the Board include faculty, staff, student and alumni representatives.

At the first Board meeting of 2019 (January 24, 2019), the University’s Smoke-Free Policy was approved by the Board of Trustees to apply to Trinity College, effective immediately.

The U of T Smoke-free Policy reflects our commitment to provide a safe and healthy environment for everyone in the community. The policy addresses recent changes by the Government of Ontario that allow the smoking of cannabis in public spaces, which may increase the risk of exposure to second-hand smoke.

What is covered under the new U of T Smoke-Free Policy?

The new Smoke-Free Policy applies to smoking or holding lighted tobacco or cannabis, and the use of e-cigarettes or other vaping devices. The smoking ban makes exceptions for Indigenous ceremonial activities and medical accommodation.

Who does this policy apply to?

The Smoke-Free Policy applies to all individuals present on University of Toronto property and Trinity College property at any time and for any purposes, including employees, students, contractors, volunteers and visitors.

Where can I go to smoke?

All smoking and vaping is prohibited on University of Toronto property and Trinity College property. You must do so off the University of Toronto and Trinity College properties.

In addition, the City of Toronto Smoking Bylaw prohibits smoking within 9 metres of entrances and exits of any building that is used by the public.

Why has the University of Toronto gone smoke-free?

The health impacts of smoking and second-hand smoke are well documented. Making campuses smoke-free is a growing trend. At least 65 Canadian universities and colleges are now smoke-free according to the Canadian Cancer Society (pdf). The new policy is consistent with the university’s goal to create a healthy campus environment.

Support related to cessation

The university offers support for faculty, staff and students who want to quit smoking:

Staff and faculty have access to Green Shield’s smoking-cessation program, which includes some drug coverage and pharmacist counselling, as well as an e-course available through the university’s Employee and Family Assistance Program.

For students, smoking-cessation programs are available through the Health and Wellness Centres at the St. George campus and U of T Scarborough, and the Health and Counselling Centre at U of T Mississauga.

More information is available on this resources page.

For more information on the University of Toronto Smoke-Free Policy, visit www.utoronto.ca/smoke-free, which includes additional frequently asked questions.

Categories: Announcements; Campus Updates